At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
What are the Different Types of Posture Support?
The different types of posture support include items like spinal braces, posture bras and bands, ergonomic chairs, or supportive mattresses and pillows for sleeping at night. Each of these are intended to correct habitual postural movements, such as rolling the shoulders forward and bending the head when sitting at a computer desk; they will not correct actual spinal deformities. Other types of posture support might include exercise to increase the strength and flexibility of the muscles in the abdominals, shoulders, and back so that when the support devices are removed, one still has good posture.
Spinal support braces are commonly used by people who have very poor posture and need posture support. These differ from the orthotics prescribed by a doctor, which are typically made of hard plastic and designed to prevent all movement in the spine. Postural support braces are typically soft, made of nylon straps, and are worn over the shoulders. They press into the middle of the back in the thoracic spine, pulling the shoulders back and straightening the upper spine and neck while opening a rounded chest.
Posture bras and bands follow a similar principle. Some people wear support bands around their lower back, or lumbar spine, to prevent a swayback posture, and to provide additional support when lifting heavy items. Studies have shown that these lower back supports do not do much to prevent injury when doing heavy lifting, but many people persist in wearing them anyway.
Ergonomic desk chairs can also help to offer posture support when sitting at a desk all day. Exercise ball chairs are a popular type of ergonomic desk chair. These chairs help to activate the muscles of the abdomen and lower back, preventing slumping in the chair and helping to strengthen muscles throughout the body. Maintaining good posture while sitting all day, as well as getting up to stretch or take a quick walk, is important to prevent back pain.
A supportive mattress and pillow is helpful for posture support as well. It was long believed that a firm mattress was best for the back, but this has been disproved; a medium to soft mattress with good support is a better choice. It is also important to use a pillow that supports the neck, and to place a pillow between the knees. The idea is to keep the spine in a neutral, healthy shape throughout the night, trying to maintain the same shape that it has when one is standing with good posture.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![Typing with a twisted body posture can cause spinal deformities.]()
By: Image Source IS2Typing with a twisted body posture can cause spinal deformities. -
![Spinal braces can help a person correct poor posture.]()
By: Felix MizioznikovSpinal braces can help a person correct poor posture. -
![Although an ergonomic chair can greatly improve posture, it's still important to take stretch breaks throughout the day.]()
By: endostockAlthough an ergonomic chair can greatly improve posture, it's still important to take stretch breaks throughout the day. -
![Those who work in positions that require heavy lifting often wear posture support belts, although they aren't always effective.]()
By: Monkey BusinessThose who work in positions that require heavy lifting often wear posture support belts, although they aren't always effective.
Discussion Comments
There are a lot of different orthopedic posture support products available. Some of them kind be kind of pricey, and others are quite inexpensive.
One thing that helps my back more than anything is to sleep with a pillow between my knees. I ordered a pillow specifically to help with this.
This is supposed to help take some of the pressure off your back, and I don't wake up with a sore back anymore.
The way the pillow is shaped I have no problem keeping it between my knees when I need to roll over during the night.
I am glad that something inexpensive like this helped me out. I know some people have gone to the expense of getting a new mattress only to find out it quit working for them after a few months.
It is a lot easier to have good posture when your back is not hurting. Not only does it look better, but is also much better for your whole spine.
Even as a kid, I had poor posture. I remember my dad always telling me to sit up straight. Now that I work at a desk all day long, my posture is even worse.
If I don't constantly think about it, I find myself hunched over my desk, and know this can't be good for me.
One thing I have done is put a small pillow behind my back. I not a very big person, and there is a lot of extra room when I sit down in my chair.
With the pillow behind my back, I can comfortably lean back in my chair instead of hunching over all the time. This back posture support is a simple, yet effective treatment that has helped me.
I also try to get up every hour or so and walk around. Even if I stand up and so some stretches, it makes me more aware of my posture when I sit back down.
Post your comments